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Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Trans-inner Cell Mass Injection of Embryonic Stem Cells Leads to Higher Chimerism Rates
Published on: May 29, 2018
Chimeras intended for human gamete production: an ethical alternative?
1The Centre of Medical Ethics and Law, The Dickson Poon School of Law, King's College London, London, UK.
Abstract:
Human eggs for basic, fertility and stem-cell research are in short supply. Many experiments that require their use cannot be carried out at present, and, therefore, the benefits that could emerge from these are either delayed or never materialise. This state of affairs is problematic for scientists and patients worldwide, and it is a matter that needs our attention. Recent advances in chimera research have opened the possibility of creating human/non-human animal chimeras intended for human gamete production (chimeras-IHGP). In this paper, I examine four arguments against the creation of such chimeras and prove that all of them are found wanting. I conclude by showing that there is a strong moral reason for scientists to pursue this research avenue.
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